Food is everything when it comes to a wedding reception. However, caterers do not always come cheap. To save money, people should definitely consider catering their own wedding reception. Doing this is easier than one might think. All it takes is some brainstorming, planning, and a little help from friends and loved ones. The following are some tips for how to cater a wedding reception so that a couple doesn’t have to go into debt feeding their guests.
First, it is important to consider the type of reception one wants to have. This will affect how the food is served and the types of foods that will be needed. A sit-down dinner is different than a buffet. Some types of catering are more formal than others. This is important to consider when it comes time to choose how food will be served or where it will be located during a wedding reception.
Next, consider the type of food to include at this reception. The sky’s the limit when it comes to food. You could have everything from mozzarella sticks to steak. The type of reception you have will determine the type of food. For example, if you’re having something casual, you may want to go with finger foods. However, if you are having a formal reception, you may want to go with a five course dinner.
Remember that this is your wedding: You should have food you enjoy at this reception. Thus, if you hate pudding, don’t think that you have to serve it. Take the time to think about what you want to eat at this event when deciding on the wedding reception menu.
Themes are fun to consider when choosing the food for a wedding. For example, if you’re having a beach themed wedding reception, you might want to go with summer-related foods like watermelon. Similarly, if you are having a western-like theme, you could go with barbecue.
Make sure you have enough food to feed everyone. Think about how many people have RSVPed to the event and decide on the amount of portions each person will need. Add ten people to whatever RSVP count you have: This will provide you with a safety net in case people unexpectedly show up or if people eat more than anticipated.
Always have a back-up plan in case something goes wrong with the food. You may need to preheat food when you arrive at the reception venue. Thus, it’s smart to bring along a back-up microwave in case the facilities are experiencing an issue.
Remember that you don’t have to cook everything yourself. You can ask friends and family members to help you. Additionally, it is normal to hire outside help to both make and serve the food at your wedding reception.
Consider, too, where the food will be located. You want the food to be easily accessible, but you don’t want it to be in a well-trafficked area or too close to a doorway because it could make for a cluttered or awkward reception.
Lastly, make sure to consider serving utensils, plates, and cutlery. This is a small detail, but it is important. Some venues will provide such items whereas others will request you bring your own serving items.
